There are all different types of families, and within those there are all different relationships. Husband and wife, mother and daughter, father and son, stepdaughter and stepmother, and everything in between.

In my household, it’s my dad, my mom, my sister, and me. I am the youngest and have always loved that aspect of my life. My personality has always been one that would be classified as very independent. Out of the two daughters in my family, I was always ready to be on my own. I have never been the type of person to verbally explain my emotions (hints the reason why I write).

When my sister left for college, I was still in high school and unable to drive by myself. Whenever I was in the car with my mom, she would always check my sister’s schedule and call her, almost every day. I thought this was the craziest thing. How would I have something new to tell my mom every day? My mom and my sister both have very similar personalities. They are both extremely empathetic and would do anything if someone asked. On the other hand, I am more like my dad, more realistic and able to say no when people offer me samples of hand cream in the mall.

When I left for college, I told my mom that we wouldn’t be talking on the phone every day, because that isn’t who I am. My independent personality, it seemed, wanted to be off and able to try life on my own. But, as time at college has continued, the only thing it seems I want to do is call my mom. I try to call my mom at least once or twice a week. I always want to catch her up on how my week has been and what drama is going on in my life.

I have learned more about how much my parents do for me and how much they have taught me while I have been away from them. For example, I wipe down the counters in my dorm at least once a week, something I learned from watching my dad do. And, if you know anything about me, you would know cleaning is not my thing. I realized how much easier it is to wash dishes with a dishwasher when you don’t have one available to you. I have also learned and taught my roommate how to properly recycle, from my mom teaching me years ago.

So, to the girl who needs to tell her parents how much she appreciates them, let them know. If you aren’t in the same house as them anymore, call them up or facetime them. If you do still live with them, show them how much you appreciate them. Offer to do the dishes instead of being asked, do things for them before they have to ask you. Let the little things you do and say show them how much you truly appreciate them. And never forget to say, “I love you” often.